Fallopian tube occlusion device

Abstract

A device for occluding the fallopian tube including a retention member and a mesh material supported by the retention member. The retention member has a first lower profile configuration for delivery and a second expanded configuration for placement within the fallopian tube. The mesh material is configured to block passage of an egg through the tube. The member has a plurality of tube engagement members to secure the retention member to the fallopian tube.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority from provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 932,405 filed May 31, 2007, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This application relates to a minimally invasive device for occluding the fallopian tubes.[0004]2. Background of Related Art[0005]Tubal ligation is one method of female sterilization. It can be performed laparoscopically by access through the patient's abdomen where the surgeon severs and closes the ends of the fallopian tubes by tying, applying clamps or cauterization. These devices achieve occlusion by external application to the tube.[0006]Other methods involve transcervical access. In some techniques, various agents are injected within each of the fallopian tubes to close or block the tubes. In other transcervical procedures, mechanical devices are inserted and anchored within the tube to promote tissue ingrowth and scar tissue formation to occlude the tubes. In ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a device for occluding the fallopian tube that overcomes the problems and deficiencies of the prior art. The device comprises a retention member and a mesh material supported by the retention member. The retention member has a first lower profile configuration for delivery and a second expanded configuration for placement within the fallopian tube. The mesh material is configured to block passage of an egg through the fallopian tube. The retention member has a plurality of fallopian tube engagement members to secure the retention member to the fallopian tube. The invention also provides a method for fallopian tube occlusion that involves inserting a sheath containing a retention member having a plurality of struts in a reduced profile position, exposing the retention member from the sheath to enable it to expand to engage a wall of the fallopian tube, subsequently inserting mesh material within a space between the plurality of struts, and withdrawing the sheath to leave the retention member in the fallopian tube so the mesh material fills the space within the tube to occlude the tube. The retention member has a plurality of shape memory struts that can move toward a shape memorized position."

Problems solved by technology

In other techniques, radiofrequency energy electrodes are inserted and energized to thermally damage the tube, causing scarring to occlude it.

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